New iPhones could get a front camera upgrade — but not the iPhone 16

Are you unhappy with the quality of your selfies taken with your iPhone? A solution might be on its way with an enhanced front camera. However, this isn't expected to feature in the forthcoming iPhone 16 models scheduled for release this fall. Instead, the iPhone 17 will come with a 24MP front-facing camera, according to veteran analyst Ming Chi Kuo in a recent post on Medium. Kuo suggests that the improved lens will feature six elements leading to a greatly enhanced selfie image quality. A shift to a 24MP lens will represent a significant upgrade for the iPhone series. Since the iPhone 11, Apple has employed a 12MP TrueDepth camera for self-portraits. Besides minor adjustments, such as autofocusing introduced in the iPhone 14 alongside a refreshed f/1.9 aperture, the megapixel count has remained unchanged. Presently, iPhone's front cameras feature a five-element lens. The inclusion of more lens elements results in brighter photographs by allowing in more light and causing less distortion. As such, a six-element lens will indeed be a superior upgrade. Kuo's report, however, might be disappointing news for those intending to buy the iPhone 16 this year as he anticipates Apple will keep the same 12MP front camera in their fall release. The 24MP camera is expected to feature in the iPhone 17 or whatever the 2025 models will be named. When the new front camera eventually becomes available, its improved resolution and six-element lens will produce much better photos, clearer when enlarged, fewer distortions and improved performance in low light situations. It may seem premature to discuss iPhone 17 features when the release of iPhone 16 is still about nine months away. However, this isn't the first time we've heard of Apple's 2025 phone plans. Besides, Apple reportedly has significant upgrades planned for next year’s iPhone 17. So far, Apple hasn't confirmed any details about its forthcoming iPhone 16, let alone the iPhone 17 because they never respond to product speculation. Kuo, renowned for his accuracy in predicting Apple's moves, has published numerous reports based on supply chain facts that have eventually become Apple phone and tablet features. Kuo’s claim about the front camera comes after several reports last year suggesting Apple is considering other significant enhancements to the iPhone 17, including rumors of manufacturing its own batteries for the device and introducing its first 2nm chip in the release next year, making it the most potent iPhone ever made.